West Side Story – About the Show
Highlights of West Side Story – Must-See Moments
The timeless coming-of-age story returns to Broadway after 8 years!
“West Side Story” is one of the greatest classics from Broadway’s Golden Age of the 1940s and 1950s. Nominated for Best musical at the 1958 Tony Awards, this groundbreaking production helped shape the history of Broadway itself.The 1961 film adaptation was a global sensation, earning 10 Academy Awards out of 11 nominations, including Best Picture. It not only introduced West Side Story to audiences worldwide but also cemented the musical film as a powerful art form. Whether on stage or on screen, this masterpiece continues to captivate, leaving audiences breathless with its unforgettable music and storytelling.
A fresh revival blending original music with contemporary dance
Known for its emotionally charged music and powerful message, West Side Story has touched audiences for generations. The unforgettable songs by Stephen Sondheim and Leonard Bernstein, including “Tonight”, “Mambo”, and “Maria”, are among the most iconic numbers in musical theater history.
In this revival, the original score is paired with bold contemporary choreography by Anne Teresa De Keersmaeker, giving the show an entirely new dimension. Audiences can expect to experience West Side Story like never before, while still enjoying the timeless music that has made it legendary.
West Side Story – Show info
Show details of West Side Story
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Theater location： Broadway Theatre 1681 Broadway, New York, NY 10019 (Map) |
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Performance Run: Opening: 2019年12月10日 Closing: 2020年3月9日 |
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Show Links: |
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Type of the show: Adapted into a Movie Fun Emotional・Touching Stunning Songs Stunning Dance |
West Side Story – Story
The Plot / Summary of West Side Story
Riff, leader of the Jets, decides to settle things once and for all with a rumble against Bernardo, leader of the Sharks. The fight is set for later that night at a dance in the neutral territory of the gym. Meanwhile, Riff’s best friend Tony, no longer interested in gang life and longing for “something great,” reluctantly agrees to join him at the dance.
At the dance, the Jets and Sharks square off in a battle of dance moves. In the middle of the tension, Tony meets Maria, Bernardo’s sister, and the two instantly fall in love.
Later, as both gangs argue over weapons at Doc’s drugstore, Tony intervenes and convinces them to settle the rumble with a one-on-one fistfight. But when he visits Maria at her bridal shop job, she pleads with him to stop the fight altogether. The two reaffirm their love in an imagined wedding, promising a future together.
Under the highway, the rumble begins. Tony arrives late, desperate to stop it, but tempers flare. When Bernardo mocks Tony, Riff snaps and draws a knife. In the chaos, Riff is fatally stabbed by Bernardo. In a flash of anger and grief, Tony seizes Riff’s knife and kills Bernardo. As sirens approach, the gangs scatter, leaving behind the dead and Tony, who flees in shock.
When Maria learns the horrifying outcome of the rumble, love and truth collide in a heartbreaking twist of fate. Can their love survive, or will destiny tear them apart forever?
West Side Story – Movie
The YouTube trailer of West Side Story
This is a promotional video for the Broadway musical “West Side Story”. You can see the fun dance and singing performances on stage.
West Side Story – Explore, FAQ
Behind the Scenes of West Side Story
A Work That Reflected Its Era During Broadway’s Second Golden Age
“West Side Story” is a Broadway musical inspired by Shakespeare’s play “Romeo and Juliet,” reimagined against the social backdrop of New York City at the time. When the show premiered, America was riding the prosperity of being a victor of World War II, thriving economically and establishing itself as a global center.
This cultural climate ushered in what is often called Broadway’s Second Golden Age, when numerous films and musicals reflected a vision of a new America overcoming prejudice and poverty. Set against the realities of 1950s New York, the story of young immigrants finding love across cultural divides captured the hearts of audiences everywhere.
West Side Story – FAQ
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Can I buy tickets for West Side Story (Broadway show) on the day of the show?
Tickets are available for purchase until the day before the show through our booking page. See more details about West Side Story tickets.
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How much are tickets for West Side Story (Broadway show)?
Tickets for the Broadway musical West Side Story start at $84 with our discounted prices. See more details for West Side Story tickets.
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Is the English in West Side Story (Broadway show) hard to understand?
The musical West Side Story has a slightly higher level of English difficulty. We recommend reading the synopsis before you go. For other recommended shows, please refer to the Broadway Musical Selection Guide. You’re sure to find a show you’ll love from among the many musicals in New York.
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Do you have a summary or synopsis of West Side Story (Broadway show)?
The story and synopsis of the Broadway musical West Side Story are introduced in the West Side Story Story section. Reading this beforehand will help you easily understand the storyline.
West Side Story – Review
TOMOMI:
A Fresh New WSS
This production completely redefines what you thought you knew about West Side Story. Many may know the film, but this version feels entirely different. The music and storyline are the same, yet the blend of classic and contemporary creates a truly new experience. If it wins the Tony Award, tickets will surely skyrocket, so fans should definitely see it now!
February 24, 2020
Bu-rin:
West Side Story
I saw the preview in January. When the cast entered from both sides of the stage, their close-ups appeared on the screen behind them. At first, I thought they were pre-recorded, but then realized they were live! The set design, camera work, and projections were cinematic in quality, creating the feeling of stepping right into a film. If you expect the traditional version, you’ll be completely surprised in the best way. I can’t wait to see how it evolves in the full run.
February 3, 2020
Jo:
A True Classic
After seeing two Disney shows, I wanted something more traditional, so I chose this. This is what a musical should be; powerful dance, incredible vocals, and a thrilling energy that left me smiling long after leaving the theater. While flashy shows are fun, I personally prefer timeless works like this one.
January 15, 2020
FUKUSUKE:
Best musical
I still remember the shock of seeing the original film years ago. Its spirit has not faded, and seeing it revived on stage proves how timeless it really is. West Side Story is truly a masterpiece born on Broadway. If you happen to be in New York while it’s playing, this is the show to see.
August 2, 2019
Momotaro:
Broadway Magic
Because it’s such a well-known show, I had high expectations, but it still exceeded them. Compared to when I saw it in Japan, the energy, dancing, and vocals in New York were on another level. Truly unforgettable.
March 9, 2020
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